The Melilla-Nador cross-border urban complex

Abstract

Globalisation is restructuring the international division of labour. Old borders are undergoing intense changes – their function of isolation is being altered and some are becoming bridges for trade. This process is selective. Flows of labour and goods are tightly controlled, while the movement of capital is favoured. Despite the striking human drama of migration control, the borders of Melilla (Spain) and Nador (Morocco) have created opportunity for transnational capital, precisely because of the socio-economic imbalance along the border. After analysing density maps, the labour market, and the supply and demand for services, we observed that a cross-border functional region is being formed: its urban form tending towards a conurbation hierarchically organised around Melilla and lacking any planned integration. Such integration plans are common within the European Union in border reconfiguration processes. We conclude that the asymmetrical frontier is driving the economy of a broad cross-border region that is devoid of other resources, and is following a geoeconomic approach that exploits (and maintains) inequality. Furthermore, the urban shape is similar to the model of Latin American cross-border cities. It is essential to acknowledge this reality and develop strategies of supranational cohesion and integration, and implement joint governance plans.

Keywords

• frontera
• urbanismo
• asimetría
• complejo urbano transnacional
• melilla-nador.